Drone boat attack on oil tanker off Oman coast; Indian crew member killed

MUSCAT: An Indian crew member was killed in a drone boat attack on an oil tanker off the coast of Oman. The incident occurred about 52 nautical miles from Muscat, the capital of Oman. The vessel targeted was the MKD VYOM, which sails under the flag of the Marshall Islands.

Oman’s Maritime Security Centre has confirmed the attack. The tanker had 21 crew members on board, including 16 Indians, four Bangladeshis and one Ukrainian national. All crew members, except the deceased Indian national, are reported to be safe.

Following the attack, a powerful explosion and fire broke out in the ship’s main engine room. The tanker was carrying approximately 59,463 metric tonnes of cargo at the time of the incident.

Authorities said the remaining crew members were rescued after reports of the explosion and fire. The rescue operation was carried out with the help of a Panamanian commercial vessel. A ship from the Royal Navy of Oman has reached the site to monitor the damaged tanker and assess the situation. Oman’s maritime authorities have also issued an advisory to other vessels passing through the area to remain alert.